10 Proven Tips for Stress-Free Travel with Kids

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

Are you a parent or grandparent planning a trip with your little ones? Traveling with children can be a fun and memorable experience, but it can also be incredibly stressful. From packing and planning to dealing with meltdowns and keeping them entertained, it’s no wonder parents often feel exhausted before even leaving the house.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here are ten proven tips for reducing stress when traveling with children:

#1 – Plan ahead

Book your trip early for the best flight and room category availability. Work with a trusted travel advisor experienced with planning family travel.

#2 – Start planning and packing early

Make a list of everything you need to pack for both you and your children. This will ensure that you don’t forget anything important. Involve your children to ensure that current “favorites” are packed. Don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Start packing at least a week in advance to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

#3 – Pack snacks and activities

Pack plenty of snacks and activities to keep your children entertained during the trip. This can include coloring books, puzzles, and small toys. Personal electronics are effective, but try to limit screen time. Make sure everyone actually experiences the vacation!

#4 – Be prepared for meltdowns

Children can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for meltdowns. Bring along a change of clothes and extra wipes, just in case.

#5 – Use a child tracker

Consider using a child tracker to keep an eye on your little ones, especially in crowded places. Or try the old school method of dressing everyone in matching colorful t-shirts.

#6 – Travel during off-peak hours

Consider traveling during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and reduce stress.

#7 – Select flights strategically

Try to fly direct and early in the morning. Avoid taking the last flight out, as it often gets canceled.

#8 – Be flexible

Be prepared for unexpected delays and changes in plans. The more flexible you are, the less stressed you’ll be.

#9 – Pack your patience

Expect everything to take longer than it seems it should. Be kind to each other and yourself.

#10 – Have fun

Most importantly, remember to have fun! Traveling with children is an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories with your family.

Several apps and services can make family travel easier, including:

• BabyQuip: This is a service that allows you to rent baby gear, such as cribs, strollers, and car seats, from local providers. This can be a great option for families who want to avoid the hassle and expense of bringing their own gear on a trip.
• Nanny Services: Some companies offer on-demand nanny services for families traveling with children. This can include in-room childcare, daytime activities, and evening babysitting services. Check this link for more information.
• Hotels with Kids Programs: Some hotels offer programs for families with children. These can include kid-friendly amenities such as pools, game rooms, and supervised activities. Some examples are The Ritz-Carlton, Westin, and Omni. Ask me about special rates and amenities I offer my clients.
• Family-Friendly Travel Planning: A few travel planning apps and websites cater specifically to families. These can help with finding kid-friendly accommodations, activities, and restaurants. Some examples include Familius , Kid&Coe , and Family Traveller .

By following these tips and utilizing these apps and services, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free trip with your little ones. Happy travels!

Let’s get started planning your luxury vacation! Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!